Come back, little diva

Speaking of stars, August 13 heralds the return of an annual wonder—the Perseid Meteor Shower (earthsky.org/astronomy-essentials/earthskys-meteor-shower-guide) and I’m planning to begin my celebration by toasting the debut of “Peace” vodka at the Catskill Distilling Company that same night. Monte Sachs has created the taste sensation, using locally harvested grains, and it’s time for the fruits of his labors to debut.

Honoring the “Spirits of Woodstock,” Sachs is looking forward to “Love” and “Happiness” bottles joining “Peace” on the shelves in the near future.

I might not know where I’m going, but “I know where I’ve been” reverberates in my head as I peruse the play-list of snappy songs from Mark Shaiman’s glowing score of “Hairspray” (the musical) currently running at the Rivoli Theatre in South Fallsburg, NY, presented by The Sullivan County Dramatic Workshop (www.scdw.net).

Acting guru Konstantin Stanislavisky’s declaration that “There are no small parts, only small actors” sprang to mind as I read the program, noting that several of the standouts (for me) were not lead players. Heather Stevens, Sal Polichetti, Carol Scannell MacAdam and Jennifer Colletti hit all the right notes, alongside powerhouse Rebecca DaCosta and local (bring down the house) diva Joseph Jervais as matriarch Edna Turnblad.

Allen and Scott Eckers, along with Ellen Pavloff, all work hard at making it work and from what I understand, the show has received some glowing notices. Clearly, dedication and effort has gone into this production—and if I’ve left some names out, it is strictly intentional. I’ve been called out before for airing my views, so am leaving it to you, the audience, to form your own opinions. My final remark on the subject? Sometimes being a “small actor” just isn’t enough. If you want my uncensored review, feel free to ask. Will I be asked to come back? Only time will tell.

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Jonathan Fox currently lives in Sullivan County. Having written for film and television, he now concentrates his efforts on novels, plays and assorted periodicals, along with his weekly "Humble Opinion" on life in the Catskills.